Sep 11, 2020

PANDEMICS CAN BE STRESSFUL... (PLUS TONIGHT SEAN L & MELANIE SUTHERLAND FEATURE)

The pandemic may be stressful for people.

Fear and anxiety about a new disease and what could happen can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children.

Public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety.

The loss of your job , and income, and identity, can also wreak havoc on your wellbeing. Coping with stress in a healthy way will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.

Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can sometimes cause the following:

Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones, your financial situation or job, or loss of support services you rely on.
Changes in sleep or eating patterns.
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating.
Worsening of chronic health problems.
Worsening of mental health conditions.
Increased use of tobacco, and/or alcohol and other substances.
Loss of job
Loss of income

If you're in crisis

If you're in immediate danger or need urgent medical support, call 911.

If you're experiencing gender-based violence, you can access a crisis line in your province or territory.

You may also access support workers, social workers, psychologists and other professionals for confidential chat sessions or phone calls by texting WELLNESS to: